A pup in this litter was diagnosed with ichthyosis. This is a debilitating and devastating disease that causes a thickening of the foot pads and scaling in the skin.
“Ichthyosis is a very rare skin condition in dogs that is the result of a recessive genetic mutation. The mutation prevents the outer layer of skin from developing properly. Affected skin is rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes that stick to the hair. The term “ichthyosis” comes from the Greek word for fish, as the skin of these dogs resembles fish scales. In addition to the flakes and scales on the body, there may be areas of thickened skin with increased pigment, as well as thickening of the foot pads.”
This very basic explanation of the disease does not begin to describe the ordeal the family and their dog have endured. Because this is such a rare disease, we unfortunately learned about it with and through the family that has had to battle this heartbreaking and life changing disease. PLEASE DO NOT THINK THAT JUST BECAUSE YOUR DOGS/LINES ARE ‘STRONG AND HEALTHY’ THERE IS NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT! I have owned, handled, bred and trained 3 generations on both sides of this pedigree (mom and dad, grandparents, great grandparents and great-great grandparents) and they have been very healthy, strong bloodlines. If you are a breeder and have 1 or both of these bloodlines in your breeding program, please DNA test for this disease before breeding! Genetic testing will reliably determine whether a dog is a genetic Carrier of Ichthyosis. Ichthyosis is inherited in an Autosomal Recessive manner in dogs meaning that they must receive two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to develop the disease. In general, carrier dogs will not show any symptoms- so there is no way to “look” at a dog and determine if they are a carrier. But if 2 carriers are bred to one another, there is a risk of having affected pups. Each pup that is born to a breeding where both parents are carriers have a 25% chance of inheriting the disease! Please do not risk it! A simple genetic test can prevent a breeding that may produce a pup that will have a lifelong battle with this chronic and progressive disease. Here is a link to more information on ichthyosis. https://www.embracepetinsurance.com/health/ichthyosis I would give anything to take away the suffering of this family and my beautiful baby. Please take heed to our hard learned lesson and do a DNA test on both of these lines.
Guardian Rottweilers V LITTER
Sire: Guardian Puck Von Gottschalk
Dam: Guardian Xoana Von Gottschalk
I cannot put into words how excited I am for this breeding! Champion Crom di Alaricus Rex was not just one of the best producing studs, earning the prestigious title of FCI Champion in Reproduction, but he was also a very treasured friend. Crom was a direct son of Mambo Von Der Crossener Ranch, arguably one of the best producers in the world to date- famous world wide for his typey progeny and that unmistakable head type. Mambo is one of the most line bred dogs in the breed with breeders hoping to capitalize on his strong type that remains consistent generations later. Crom was, without a doubt, my most favorite Mambo kid ever. He was a beast on the field, a ‘Rott’ star in the ring, but most importantly, he had a bombproof temperament. Crom was noble and majestic, ferociously protective of all he loved, funny and clever, and so very affectionate and loving. He had this way of pulling you in for a hug by wrapping his paws around your shoulders and tucking his head under your chin- it felt as though you were being embraced by a human, but with the unconditional love that only a Rottie could give.
Crom’s final gift to me was a litter with my Isis which resulted in some of my finest pups, including Puck. Puck is an incredible male with all the bone and substance Isis has grown famous for producing with Crom’s type and temperament added as a bonus. Character is everything you would have expected from an Isis and Crom baby, and then some. He is this fat, pumpkin headed beast built like a rhino who thinks he is a kitten! Puck has spent the last couple of months on tour in Europe and, just like his dad, has completely rocked it. Besides being just a phenomenal Rottweiler all around, Puck is very special to me.
The mom, Xoana, is a pretty spectacular female as well. She won her first trophy at her very first show on the day she was old enough to compete (4 months of age exactly!) She captivated everyone, especially the judge who thought her character was one of the best he had seen! She was raised and trained by my oldest daughter and is just fantastic in every way. I can always count on Xoana for anything and everything- biddable, happy, eager, confident. I have waited 3 years for this breeding and and I cannot wait to meet these babies!!
Xoana’s Gorgeous Girls:
Xoana’s Magnificent Males:
“Boomer” Guardian Vex Von Gottschalk
Boomer Vex Von says hello!
Hi Alice,
He goes to the vet on May 12th to get his final shots and he can finally get out and about with other puppies.
Everyone at the Vet hospital he goes too, runs to his room to see him and how big he is. They said they have never seen such a large head and well proportioned body on a Rottweiler. They were also dog trainers and showed their dogs and said Boomer is extraordinary.
Here’s some better ones at 11 weeks old. He grabbed the top of my husbands water bottle. And a few of him going to sleep!
He’s huge at almost 6 months and is the most lovable dog I’ve ever seen. Everywhere he goes, he makes an impact on everyone.
“Anna” Guardian Velma Von Gottschalk
Hi Alice,
We took Velma to the Patterson Veterinary yesterday and she got her second set of shots, doctor said everything looks good. By the way we renamed her Anna!
Almost have her house broken 95%, she learns really quick!! Sure knows what treats are already.
Sincerely,
Sandy & BoB
Anna, just graduated from Puppy Class!
Anna is doing good, learning really quick 🙂
Anna playing with sprinkler, loves the water!
Hi Alice,
Bob and I want to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thought you would like a picture of Anna @ 10 months.
Sincerely,
Sandy & Bob
“Bronx” Guardian Vyper Von Gottschalk
Hi! We wanted to send you a 13 week picture of Bronx. He is so amazing!!!
We hope you are all doing well!Thanks again,
Jen
Guardian Valerie Von Gottschalk
Girls awards for puppy class graduation (click here to see award!)
Alice,
Guardian Venm Von Gottschalk
Hello Alice!!!
I just wanted to check in and tell you that Venm is doing great!!!
He is more loving and playful than we could’ve imagined.
We would like to say thank you very much and keep in keeping on. You guys are doing great!
With that being said, we are considering purchasing another Rott from you..
We would love another Rott of the same high pet quality that we have now.
I look forward to hearing back from you soon,
Joe
